John Francis Hugh Thompson

John Francis Hugh Thompson is the Wold Family Professor in Environmental Balance for Human Sustainability at Cornell University’s College of Engineering. His career spans academia and industry, with roles including Chief Geoscientist at Teck, Director of the Mineral Deposit Research Unit (MDRU), and Principal of PetraScience Consultants. He holds a B.A. in Geology from Oxford University (1976), and M.Sc. and Ph.D. in Geology from the University of Toronto (1978).

Research interests focus on Earth resources, energy, and environmental management, emphasizing sustainable practices in mining, renewable energy, and climate change mitigation. His work integrates tectonics, geochemistry, and exploration geology to address global resource challenges.

Awards & Recognition:

• 2016 Distinguished Lecturer, Society of Economic Geologists
• 2015 Mentorship Medal, Canadian Federation of Earth Scientists
• 2011 Geological Association of Canada Distinguished Service Award

Leadership & Engagement:

• Founder and past-Chair of Geoscience BC
• Former President of the Society of Economic Geologists (SEG)
• Board member of Genome BC and the Canada Mining Innovation Council

Thompson’s consultancy work and academic contributions bridge industry and research, emphasizing innovation in resource exploration and sustainable development.